IkerCasillas admits Spain are “nervous at facing prestigious players like Daniele De Rossi and GianluigiBuffon” today.

Euro 2012 Group C kicks off at 17.00 UK time in Gdansk with the reigning World and European champions taking on Italy.

“Sure we are nervous, that’s normal going into the opening game of a tournament like this,” said the goalkeeper.

“We want to repeat what we did four years ago, but we know it won't be easy. Italy are a great team. They have many prestigious players like De Rossi and Buffon.

“We in no way expect an easy game, as we have maximum respect for Italy. I am confident we won’t go into this with the wrong mentality.”

Spain go into their opening match just hours after a financial crisis gripped the country.

“This is just a European championship, we cannot carry all the problems of the country on our shoulders, especially when the crisis is so brutal.

“Football can help Spaniards to lift their heads and celebrate, but it’s not everything in life. We can give a little joy and I say that because I was fortunate enough to be part of our achievements and I know what it means.”